Software Engineer - Die Cutting Industry

Preco is hiring a Machine Control Software Engineer familiar with the large scale die cutting industry to join their team located in Lenexa, KS.

We are seeking a skilled Software Engineer to join our growing engineering team. You will play a key role in designing, developing, and maintaining software for our large-scale die cutting machines. This role requires a strong understanding of software development principles as well as a practical understanding of die cutting machine operations.

Preco is a leading designer and manufacturer of precision automated processing systems for high-speed and high-accuracy cutting, perforating, welding, and other specialized industrial processing applications. With our proprietary die cutting and laser-based manufacturing capabilities, Preco has also become one of the largest contract manufacturing service (CMS) providers in North America.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Conceptual Design:  Work with multiple disciplines to fully understand customer and other requirements.  Ability to synthesize those requirements into a conceptual design.  Work collaboratively across functional areas to take projects from concept to fully functioning equipment.
• Machine Control Software: Design, develop, and maintain software applications for controlling various aspects of die cutting machines, including cutting, feeding, and material handling.
• Product Customization & Development: Participate in customizing existing die cutting machines and develop software for entirely new machines based on customer requirements.
• Technical Support: Provide comprehensive technical support for Preco die cutting equipment, including debugging software issues and resolving post-sale customer inquiries.
• Project Management: Ensure software designs meet all equipment requirements and are completed within deadlines. Work independently or collaboratively depending on project scope.
• Software Documentation: Develop detailed software specifications and flowcharts, and actively participate in software testing and documentation processes.
• Manufacturing Support: Provide additional or backup support for software projects during the transition to production engineering.
• Communication & Reporting: Communicate project status updates and any roadblocks to the Director of Engineering.

Required Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in software development for the manufacturing industry.
• Strong understanding of machine operations, including cutting forces, material handling, and safety protocols.
• Experience with PLC programming (Beckhoff or similar) and PC-based control systems.
• Proficiency in C# programming using WPF (experience with MVVM design pattern a plus).
• Experience with C programming (MFC a plus).
• Basic understanding of electrical principles and troubleshooting.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to adapt to different machine models and customer requirements. 

Bonus if you have:

• Experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Experience with motion control systems (servo drives, stepper motors).
• Experience with remote troubleshooting of industrial machinery.
• Working knowledge of industrial automation protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, DeviceNet).

A Day in the Life (Example):

• Analyze customer requirements and translate them into software specifications.
• Develop and test new software features for machine control.
• Debug software issues reported by machine operators or customers (both on-site and remotely).
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers to troubleshoot machine malfunctions.
• Write technical documentation, including operator manuals for custom machines.
• Assist with developing proposals and quotes for new custom machines.
• Participate in code reviews and knowledge-sharing sessions with the engineering team.

What’s Expected in the first 3/6/12 months:

 3 Month

      - Ability to assist on projects written in C

6 Months 

      - Handle complex projects in C

      - Assist on projects with Beckhoff controls

12 Months

      - Handle complex projects in C

      - Handle complex projects using Beckhoff controls

Our dedicated staff keeps us at the leading edge of precision automated processing systems in our industry. When you work at Preco, you have the opportunity to apply your skills to create optimal solutions for our customers. We have a collaborative culture and a team united by a passion to provide solutions to our customers.

If you are interested in learning more about a career with Preco as as a Software Engineer, please apply today!